submitted by Bill Gaillard
Repairs have been completed to the Bandstand in Wood Memorial Park. Last year a new floor was installed. In 2004 a new roof was put on and a cable system was installed to support the roof.
The Village of Hoosick Falls provided the funds for the roof and cable work. The Reynolds Foundation provided funds for the floor. Funds for the new steps and landing were provided by the Hoosick Falls Community Band. The third set of steps constructed on the building collapsed last season. The new steps and landing are of treated lumber, half of which was donated by Curtis Lumber in Hoosick.
Trumpet player Tim Stratton, the Band’s resident builder, was the engineer on the job,
which was completed on Saturday, May 21.
Except for some minor painting, it should last for a long time. The 35 year old structure has to be regularly maintained as it is always exposed to the weather.
The Bandstand was built in Hugh Harrington’s barn with contractor Charles Geier(d). It is set on a concrete foundation and has a cellar for storage of chairs, music stands and an electrical panel.
The structure is used for the annual summer band concerts as well as for plays, weddings, tree lighting and other programs.
Two plaques adorn the front of the Bandstand. One commemorates Henderson S. VanSurdam and the other, his son Henderson (Harry) E. VanSurdam.
Flower boxes have been installed on the outer facings of the bandstand and planted with “ever blooming” geraniums.
Plans are underway to replace the railings. The present railings are the second set installed over the years. The plan for the new set is to use treated lumber railings attached to the floor joists for more permanence.
Concerts Begin July 6
Band Concerts in the Park begin on Wednesday, July 6. They will continue on July 13, 20 and 27. Concerts in August will be on August 3, 10, 17 and 24. Concert time is 7:30 pm. Concert-goers should bring lawn chairs or blankets.
The Town of Hoosick Lions Club will be installing five new benches in the Park soon.